As we tackle counties with high HIV Rate in Kenya, it is worth noting that Kenya has made significant progress in the fight against HIV/AIDS over the years. However, there are still areas in the country that continue to face high HIV prevalence rates.
According to the Government, Kenya has 1.4 million people who are living with HIV, with 96% of that population being on treatment. Kiambu is ranked 8th with 45,917 people after Nairobi which has 124,609, Homabay 120,600, Siaya 96,297, Migori 76,053, Nakuru 57,635, Mombasa 50,656 and Kakamega 48,733
The National Syndemic Diseases Control Council (NSDCC) has flagged Homa Bay, Siaya, Kisumu, Migori, Busia, Kisii, Mombasa, Samburu, Vihiga and Uasin Gishu as the most affected counties in its latest report estimates.
In this blog post, we will explore The Top 10 Counties In Kenya With The Highest HIV Rates As Of 2023. It is important to note that these rates are subject to change and may vary over time.
1. Kisumu County leads with 128,091 individuals
Kisumu County, also located in western Kenya, has a high HIV prevalence rate. The county has a large urban population, which increases the risk of transmission. HIV prevention and treatment programs are being implemented in Kisumu County to reduce the burden of the disease.
2. Nairobi with 124,609
Nairobi County, the capital city of Kenya, also has a high HIV prevalence rate. The county has a diverse population and a high number of people living with HIV. Efforts to address the HIV epidemic in Nairobi County include increased access to testing, treatment, and prevention services.
3.Homabay 120,600
Homa Bay County has consistently had one of the highest HIV prevalence rates in Kenya. The county is located in western Kenya and has a high population density, which contributes to the spread of the virus. Efforts to curb the spread of HIV in Homa Bay County include increased access to testing, treatment, and awareness campaigns.
3.Siaya County 96,297
Siaya County, neighboring both Homa Bay and Kisumu counties, also has a high HIV prevalence rate. The county faces challenges such as poverty and limited access to healthcare, which contribute to the spread of the virus. Efforts are being made to improve access to HIV testing and treatment services in Siaya County
4.Migori 76,053
Migori County, located in western Kenya, has a significant HIV burden. The county has a high population density and limited healthcare resources, which pose challenges in the prevention and control of HIV. Programs focusing on HIV prevention, testing, and treatment are being implemented in Migori County.
5.Nakuru 57,635
A report by the National Syndemic Diseases Control Council reveals that at least 41 per cent of all new HIV infections in the country occur among adolescents and young people aged between 15 and 24 years
6.Mombasa 50,656 individuals.
Mombasa County, a coastal county in Kenya, has a high HIV prevalence rate. The county has a large population and is a major transport hub, which increases the risk of HIV transmission. HIV prevention and treatment programs are being implemented in Mombasa County to address the epidemic.
7.Kakamega County has 48,733 people living with HIV
Kakamega County, located in western Kenya, has a high HIV prevalence rate. The county shares a border with Uganda, which poses challenges in controlling the spread of the virus. HIV prevention and treatment programs are being implemented in Kakamega County to reduce new infections and improve care for those living with HIV.
8.Kiambu 45,91
The prevalence rate of HIV/AIDS in Kiambu County has declined with figures showing that the rate has dropped from 2.3 percent last year to 2.1 percent currently.
The National Syndemic Diseases Control Council (NSDCC) in a report says that the country had 18,473 AIDS-related deaths in 2022.
Kiambu County Governor Kimani Wamatangi said that the numbers have dropped from 729 cases in 2022 to 547 cases.
9.Kisii 42,210.
Kisii County, located in western Kenya, has a significant HIV burden. The county faces challenges such as poverty and limited access to healthcare, which contribute to the spread of the virus. Efforts are being made to improve access to HIV testing and treatment services in Kisii County.
In a 2022 report released by the National Syndemic Diseases Control Council,1,377,784 Kenyans are living with HIV this year with ten counties accounting for 57 percent of people living with HIV.
Kisumu County leads with 128,091 individuals followed by Nairobi with 124,609, Homabay 120,600,Siaya County 96,297,Migori 76,053,Nakuru 57,635 and Mombasa 50,656 individuals.
Kakamega County has 48,733 people living with HIV, Kiambu 45,917 and Kisii 42,210.
Concerns have been raised over new HIV infections among children, adolescents, and young people with reports of an estimated 248 new infections per week among adolescents aged 10-19.
The driving factor for new infections among adolescents and young women aged between 10 and 19 years has been attributed to the triple threat.
36 percent of all the new cases have been attributed to sexual and gender based violence.18 percent of the new cases have been pointed out during the ante-natal care attendances.
The overlapping challenge of new HIV infections, unintended pregnancies, and sexual and gender-based violence among children, adolescents, and young women, dubbed the Triple Threat, undermines the impact of investments made.
Conclusion-Counties With High HIV Rate In Kenya
If you are in any of these counties or any other part of Kenya, it is important to prioritize your sexual health and get tested regularly. HIV is a manageable condition, and early detection and treatment can make a significant difference in improving health outcomes.
